“McLaren has a rich history at the Formula 1® Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park, with David Coulthard and Jenson Button twice winning here in a McLaren, as well as Mika Hakkinen and Lewis Hamilton once each, so we’re excited to see what’s in store for Daniel next year,” said Westacott.

“They’re switching to a Mercedes power unit in 2021 which will hopefully have them in contention for championship honours.

“McLaren have had a cavalcade of stars winning world championships, with names such as Emerson Fittipaldi, James Hunt, Niki Lauda, Alain Prost, Ayrton Senna, Mika Hakkinen and Lewis Hamilton. It’s an illustrious list and, hopefully, Daniel Ricciardo is on the right path to achieve his dream in a McLaren.”

I am so grateful for my time with @renaultf1team and the way I was accepted into the team. But we aren’t done and I can’t wait to get back on the grid this year. My next chapter isn’t here yet, so let’s finish this one strong. Merci pic.twitter.com/YFfzbwrgD7

The announcement ignites the F1® driver market for 2021, with many drivers out of contract at the end of 2020. A coveted seat at Ferrari remains up for grabs off the back of Sebastian Vettel’s confirmed exit earlier this week, with current McLaren driver, Carlos Sainz, considered by many to be the frontrunner.

In Formula 1®, McLaren has won 12 drivers’ and eight constructors’ titles and in 2021 will still switch to Mercedes Benz engines despite Formula One’s decision to delay the power unit rule changes until 2022.

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